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Social Psychological and Personal Science published a study today that analyzed more than 1,000 obituaries from around the country. Many studies have also shown that people who volunteer and participate in social activities tend to live longer than others. These studies also reveal that the gender, marital status and the number of volunteer activities plays an important factor as to how religious people live an average of 4 years more than those non-religious people.

4 years is a lot! I could believe what the article is saying. Religious people are generally more at peace with themselves. Not worrying too much about what society dictates can ease a lot of burden, which is detrimental to one's overall health.

Having a network of social support, an optimistic attitude, better self-control and a sense of purpose in life may account for the long-life benefits. It is possible that these things make someone live longer and happier.

Is there proof really? I think it is people who live honest lives and are mentally at peace with themselves who live longer but bringing religion into one's life span is far-fetched. Religious people don't always mean they are pious and happy.